Hi, I’ve noticed a bit of discussion and controversy over this subject for those with LD’s and was curious to see if opinions/experiences differed for those with physical impairments. Would it be unwise to discuss my disabilities in the essay, even if I could do so in a way that was positive overall (eg: talking about personal transcendence, overcoming discrimination, ect?)
As far as you are not going wrong with your words, there is nothing to worry to create some positive thoughts in your essay.
I think talking about any experience you’ve overcome and have grown from would be fine - as long as you don’t come off as trying to get pity you should be fine 
Nothing wrong with it.
I think it’s especially relevant if you can tie it in with your intended major. For example, there is a girl in Georgia who lost her feet and hands and is studying how to make prosthetics (she’s been in the news a lot). I read about another student who injured her knee, and became interested in biomedical engineering. I don’t know if your planned major fits in at all with your experiences, but if so, then be sure to include that.
Thanks for the replies. Tying it in with my major is a good idea, I hadn’t considered. My intended major is in the social sciences, so I could certainly fit it in somewhere.
Would it come across as cynical if I engaged the negative/patronizing cultural attitudes surrounding disability, in a critical way? A lot of advice I’ve recieved stressed the importance of staying upbeat and avoiding a negative or hostile in tone; although I was planning on ending it with some sort of call to action/social change.
Just remember this is an essay for your admissions review. It’s not just writing for general readers or to expound on a topic the way you might in a hs assignment. Adcoms need to see the personal attributes and strengths they want in their class. And that also means “show, not just tell.”
The GC is a great way to get the message across of how you succeeded, despite challenges.